Houston: Within the Astros’ clubhouse, nobody’s remarks are more respected than those of second baseman Jose Altuve, a 14-year veteran and unquestionable leader of Houston.
After the team’s 5-2 loss to the Tigers in Game 2 of the American League Wild Card Series at Minute Maid Park on Wednesday, Altuve acknowledged that the team would have to find a way to re-sign third baseman Alex Bregman, who is expected to become a free agent.
If Bregman wasn’t return the following season, Altuve declared that he would be “heartbroken.”
He remarked, “I don’t want to think about my last game with Breggy.” “He’s going to be our third baseman for sure next season,” I said. We must. Without him, our organization won’t be the same. I don’t think this is going to be the final game.
Similar remarks were made by Bregman’s colleagues in various areas of the clubhouse, where they praised his leadership and the contributions he has made to the Astros. The only player to address the squad following Wednesday’s defeat was Bregman, who praised his teammates’ perseverance.
Pitcher Justin Verlander called him “one of the most impressive baseball minds, competitors I’ve been around in this game.” Simply the best teammate there is. He sees everything, he’s always doing anything he can to assist people around him grow better. .. To be honest, I have nothing but praise for him.
Verlander has “a lot more to give” as he enters free agency.
Bregman, who was selected by the Astros with the second overall choice in the 2015 MLB Draft out of LSU, entered the Major Leagues the following year and went on to win seven complete seasons, including one AL Championship Series. This year, that run came to an end, and Bregman is expected to be among the best free agents available.
Altuve stated, “The entire organization changed in a better direction since the day he got here.” “He greatly improved this team. As I mentioned before, there is a good likelihood that he will remain and even retire here.
On the Astros’ all-time hitting records, Bregman ranks sixth in homers (191), seventh in doubles (265), eighth in runs (694), ninth in RBIs (663) and 11th in hits (1,132). With 19 postseason home runs in his career, he is tied for sixth place.
“I made my debut against the Yankees when I was 21 years old, and I’ve been to the ALCS every year save this one,” he remarked. “I’ve loved every second of this enjoyable experience. Being here has been an honor, and I do not take it for granted.
According to those close to him, Bregman wants to stay in Houston, the city where his wife was born. Astros general manager Dana Brown stated that he intends to negotiate an extension with Bregman’s agent, Scott Boras, following the season.
Bregman responded, “I hope so,” when asked if he would like to return. “We’ll see what happens. I’ll delegate that to Scott and the group. It’s free agency, of course, and I’ve never truly felt that before.
Prior to this season, Altuve inked a five-year, $125 million contract extension that guaranteed he would play out his career in Houston. In recent years, the Astros have lost key players in free agency, including Carlos Correa, Gerrit Cole, and George Springer. Nevertheless, the squad has kept winning, making up for those losses primarily with players from inside.
“I have no doubt that Breggy will remain here,” he declared. “He is an exemplary leader. He is most likely among the greatest players in the history of the team.
